Heart Attack in Women
What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction or MI, is a blockage of blood flow to the heart. If not treated quickly, the portion of the heart that isn't getting enough blood will begin to die, which could lead to heart failure.
Are Women at Risk for Heart Attack?
In the United States, heart attacks are a leading cause of death for both women and men. Almost half of the people who die from heart attacks are women.
Heart Attack Risk Factors
Risk factors for heart attack in women include:
Heart Attack Symptoms in Women
As with men, the most common symptom of heart attack in women is chest pain. However, women are more likely to experience other heart attack warning signs, including:
- Pressure, squeezing or fullness in the center of the chest
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Pain in the arms, back, neck, jaw or stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden excessive sweating
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
When to Call 911
Women are less likely than men to believe they are having a heart attack, which can lead to treatment delays. If you're having heart attack symptoms, it's important to call 911 right away. Early treatment for a heart attack can save your life.
After a Heart Attack
If you've had a heart attack, a team of health care professionals at Wake Forest Baptist Health will use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose your condition and take measures to help prevent further damage to your heart. Your team may include heart doctors (cardiologists), nurse specialists and others.
Request an Appointment with a Heart Center physician today.